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Lessons from my Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera)

Writer's picture: Katie RyzhikovKatie Ryzhikov

My Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera) has a few things to teach me. I can't yet decide which is my take away; good things come to those who wait, or less is more?




This resilient little plant, known for its vibrant winter blooms, decided to flower later than expected this season. Why? It seems I gave it too much light.


At first, I was puzzled. I had tended to a gifted cutting diligently. I placed it in a bright spot under grow lights where it could bask in the light. Its leaves thrived, glossy and green, but no buds appeared as Christmas came and went. I couldn’t help but feel a little disappointed. After all, wasn’t I giving it everything it needed to thrive?


The Key to Blooming: A Lesson in Balance

Through a bit of research and some trial and error, I learned that the Christmas cactus isn’t like many other houseplants that thrive in bright light year-round. Instead, it has specific needs when it comes to blooming:

  • Darkness and Cool Temperatures: Christmas cacti require a period of reduced light (12-14 hours of darkness daily) and cooler temperatures (50–60°F) to set buds.

  • The Right Amount of Rest: It also needs a resting period after its initial growing season, with less watering and no fertilization.


By leaving it under lights all day, I had unwittingly disrupted its natural cycle. Without enough darkness, the plant didn’t receive the signal to enter its blooming phase.


What It Taught Me About Life

Nature has a way of mirroring life’s wisdom. My Christmas cactus reminded me that sometimes, more isn’t better. In our eagerness to nurture, we can overwhelm—whether it’s plants, people, or ourselves. Balance is the key.


Once I relocated the cactus to a spot where it could experience long stretches of uninterrupted darkness each evening, it began to respond. Tiny buds emerged in late December, and by mid January, it was starting to bloom, its vibrant flowers lighting up the room in a way that made the wait worthwhile. I mean, that amazing, electric pink is just screaming "Look at me!"


A Simple Guide to Thriving Christmas Cactus Blooms

If your Christmas cactus is reluctant to flower, here’s a quick checklist to help it along:

  1. Light: During its blooming preparation phase (usually fall), provide 12-14 hours of darkness daily for 6-8 weeks.

  2. Temperature: Keep it in a cool room, ideally between 50–60°F. Avoid placing it near heating vents.

  3. Watering: Allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings during the resting phase, and increase watering slightly once buds appear.

  4. Location: Choose a spot with indirect light during the day and total darkness at night.


Final Thoughts

Giving my Christmas cactus what it truly needed—not what I thought it needed—reminded me that patience and attentiveness yield the best rewards. This year, I’m taking that lesson into all aspects of my life. Sometimes, stepping back and offering exactly what’s required, nothing more, nothing less, is the secret to a beautiful bloom.

How are your plants blooming this year? Share your stories and lessons in the comments—I’d love to hear how nature has inspired you!

Happy gardening,

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